Extremity injury criterion for trauma-center transport?

• A. Neuro/vascular compromise and/or crushed, degloved, or mangled; amputation proximal to the wrist or ankle; or fractures of two proximal long bones with bleeding requiring tourniquet or hemostatic agent
• B. Simple soft tissue contusion
• C. Non-displaced finger fracture
• D. Sprain without deformity

Answer: (A)

Extremity injury criteria are about identifying limb-threatening injuries that require the resources and speed of a trauma center. The strongest signal is when the injury shows significant risk to life or limb: neurovascular compromise or a limb that is crushed, degloved, or mangled; an amputation proximal to the wrist or ankle; or fractures of two proximal long bones with active bleeding that needs a tourniquet or hemostatic agent. These findings indicate high-energy trauma with potential for severe bleeding, vascular injury, or rapid deterioration, so transporting to a trauma center is appropriate for rapid surgical assessment and definitive care. In contrast, simple soft tissue contusions, a non-displaced finger fracture, or a sprain without deformity are minor injuries that do not require trauma-center resources.